Resolution No. 1025 honors the life and legacy of Kate Barnard, a pioneering advocate for justice and equity in Oklahoma. Born on May 23, 1875, in Nebraska, Barnard moved to Oklahoma at a young age and became the first woman elected to statewide office in the United States, serving as the Oklahoma Commissioner of Charities from 1907. During her tenure, she championed numerous reforms, including improvements in working conditions, child labor laws, and the establishment of modern social services. Despite facing significant opposition, she fought tirelessly for the rights of Native American children, successfully securing over one million dollars in restitution for them.
The resolution proclaims May 23 as Kate Barnard Day in Oklahoma, recognizing her contributions to public welfare and her enduring influence on future generations of advocates and public servants. It emphasizes her commitment to justice, integrity, and compassion in public service, encapsulated in her message to the youth: "I bequeath the example of my public life to the youth of the world." The resolution also directs that copies be distributed to relevant organizations, including the Oklahoma Historical Society and the Oklahoma Commission on the Status of Women, to further honor her legacy.